Terpsichore and diplomacy in early modern Europe

Abstract

ABSTRACT Written from a dance historical perspective, this article discusses the importance of balls and court theatre dance in diplomatic hospitality and the communication of policy. Synthesising a variety of sources, key examples of international communication through mute dance performance are explored for the Valois, Tudor and Scottish courts, including the reciprocity between them. It will also be argued that the trio of royal females who held power concurrently exchanged the symbolism of the nine muses signalling a desire for peace in Europe, in contrast to the militant diplomacy of kings.